My name is Rod Soppe and I would like to thank you for your interest in the Tru Balustrade Franchise.
I have been of a builder of timber houses for the past 25 years and have built more than 500 homes. Whilst building timber homes I had a client who had a visually impaired foster child that was a climber. They asked if there was a balustrade that you could see through but was non-climbable. The question got me thinking and I realised that at the time there was no such product on the market that would fulfil both needs. So, I started to look for ways to create one.
After many trials and experiments Tru-Balustrade was produced. I then set about to prove the system worked by using them in homes I was building for a period of approximately 12 months. Once confident that the system worked well, and was well received by our customers, I applied for a Patent for my design which was received in 2020.
Our product sales have grown exponentially and so we are now looking for self-motivated people to help transform Tru Balustrade into a nationwide brand. If you are good with your hands, like working with people, are looking for a niche business in a growth industry and have always wanted to operate your own business then Tru Balustrade may be just what you are looking for.
That’s our story. We hope Tru Balustrade excites you as much as it does us, and if so, we look forward to meeting with you to further explore if Tru Balustrade could be the dream business you’ve been looking for.
Yours faithfully
Rod Soppe
Thank you for your interest in the Tru Balustrade Franchise. This franchise information kit is designed to provide you with everything you need to know about our business so that you can make a considered decision about joining our team.
Tru Balustrade Franchise was founded in 2016 on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland by Rod Soppe. The concept behind it was to create safe, cost effective and stylish balustrades that were simple to install, engineered certified and easy to maintain.
If you are passionate about house design and improvements, like working with people and are looking for a change then this could be the opportunity you have been looking for.
The Tru Balustrade systems has many unique advantages including:
COST EFFECTIVE
Tru-Balustrade is approximately 50% cheaper than comparable vertical and horizontal stainless-steel balustrades.
SAFE
Tru-Balustrade has non- Climbable vertical balusters and does not act as a ladder. The 80mm gaps between balusters Complies with BCA.
VISUALLY ATTRACTIVE
Tru-Balustrade is similar looking to more expensive horizontal wire balustrades.
STRAIGHT & RAKING BALUSTRADES
Tru- Balustrade raking panels are not problematic like other balustrade systems. Our system allows for almost any angle to suit stairs and sloping ground levels.
ENGINEER CERTIFIED
Tru-Balustrade is engineer certified.
What started as one person trailing new ways of constructing balustrades, quickly evolved into a fully-fledged business with manufacturing overseas and an increased demand from the construction sector.
- We started selling our Tru Balustrade system throughout Australia to builders and home owners.
- Then demand was so great we were able to establish manufacturing facilities for certain components overseas which further increased our cost effectiveness and profit margins.
- We expanded our product range to include additional timber sizes to increase spans up to 3.60m creating reduced support posts & increasing cost effectiveness.
- We have introduced a powder coated aluminium pool fence system.
Because we are the owners of the design and manufacturers of the product, we can continue to innovate to meet the market demand.
“The stainless-steel balustrading from Tru-Balustrade makes such a statement at the front of my house I love it! Everyone who visits comments on how nice and unique it looks. The vertical bars mean I don’t have to worry about my nephew climbing up onto it.”
Kelli McKenna
“We love how modern our balustrade looks. I don’t have to worry so much with the kids on the verandah because I know they can’t climb the vertical threads. It’s very sturdy so I can tell it will last. I was so pleased and surprised with how affordable this option is. We’ve had so many compliments because it really does look great! We are so pleased. Thanks guys!”
Amie Kerr
Tru Balustrade Franchise is a niche business with a reputation for offering quality products at an affordable price.
At the core of our business we value:
- SAFETY
- AESTHETICS
- EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE
- VALUE FOR MONEY
- QUALITY
- INNOVATION
Because we are the owners of the design and manufacturers of the product, we can continue to innovate to meet the market demand.
The typical day for a franchisee would involve:
- Responding to enquiries
- Confirming installations for the day
- Preparing balustrade for upcoming jobs
- Speaking with potential clients
Many of our franchisees will provide the materials direct to builders who will then install the balustrade themselves. However, there is also the option for franchisees to offer an installation service directly to the client.
What is it that makes Tru Balustrade Franchise different to other franchised businesses?
- Our business systems are seamless and integrated. This means you can focus selling and installing balustrades knowing the back end of your business is running smoothly.
- We believe in the importance of local knowledge, which is why we ensure every franchisee is based within their local area.
- Our business model ensures our customers receive an excellent product at an affordable price and our franchisees make good profit margins.
- We are constantly innovating and advertising to be one step ahead of the competition.
As a franchisee of Tru Balustrade Franchise you will operate your own business in your own exclusive marketing territory.
You will receive full training to ensure you are confident with the business, including all aspects of installation, as well as operating a business. This will enable you to build a reputation for quality and service in your franchised territory.
Although you will be working for yourself and will be your own boss, we are with you every step of the way and are committed to providing ongoing support and advice to ensure your business is a success.
Other qualities a Tru Balustrade Franchise would need include:
- A strong desire to own and operate your own business
- Good with your hands
- Good communication skills
- A willingness to keep learning and refining skills
- A sense of pride in what you do
- The ability to follow The Tru Balustrade business system
- Self-Motivated
A key factor for you to consider is that our management team has many years of experience, and our successful business structure is mirrored in our franchise set up.
In other words, our business model is proven. We have completed the learning curve, dealt with any issues and built an infrastructure to support our growth.
Your success is our success which is why we’re committed to sharing our experience and considerable market knowledge with you. You’ll enjoy the freedom of being your own boss while experiencing the benefits of being part of an established and successful team.
This sets out the obligations of both the franchisee and franchisor. It allows you to use our brand name and logo, our intellectual property and our method of running the franchise, while having full support and guidance from our experienced team.
You will be able to service clients from anywhere, however you will be allocated an exclusive marketing territory in which only you will be able to promote and market your business. This means the majority of your business will come from your exclusive marketing territory, but you will not be limited to accepting referral work in other areas.
Your franchise business will require the investment of time, hard work and commitment to the business system we have developed. Each and every franchisee is expected to maintain our existing high standards. You’ll be offered all the help and support you need to maintain these standards. We’ll protect the value of our brand and your business by vigorously ensuring professionalism and dedication by all involved with Tru Balustrade Franchise.
Tru Balustrade Franchise package provides everything you need to set up and operate your business.
This includes:
- Use of IP business name. logo etc
- Engineering certificates
- Templates
- Opportunities for existing sales leads
- Access to specialised suppliers at wholesale prices
- A comprehensive Franchise Operations Manual
- Training program
- Uniforms, stationary, business cards
- Marketing material /brochures
- Centrally managed website
- Domain name and email addresses
